Dreadlocks are more than just a hairstyle—they represent a cultural identity and pathway for self-expression. Each thick, matted strand is intentionally cultivated, like plant branches that need tender care and attention to thrive.
Maintaining healthy locs requires a dedicated routine of washing, moisturizing, and detoxing. Using build-up-free products allows your locs to breathe and remain free of lint and residue. Regular brushing also helps distribute moisture evenly along each strand’s length.
Contrary to popular belief, dreadlocks offer limitless styling versatility, with or without the help of a fresh retwist. Just like any other hair type, locs can be dressed up for everyday wear or special occasions.
From short and edgy to long and flowing, this selection showcases the full range of dreadlock styling possibilities for men. Read on to find your new signature look and expert tips for achieving it.
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1. Dreadlock Two Strand Twist
Two-strand twist dreadlocks are one of the most popular hairstyles for men with locs. These twists are created by taking one dreadlock and twisting it over another, forming a rope-like pattern. The ends are typically secured with small elastic bands to prevent unraveling. Whether you have short, medium, or long dreadlocks, the two-strand twist is a versatile option. This style is incredibly convenient and long-lasting, which explains its popularity. Two-strand twists work for dreadlocks of any length. Short locs can be twisted together for a textured, cropped style. Longer locs twist up beautifully, giving you thick, ropy strands that move and hang with maximum impact. It’s a style that grows with your hair, ensuring you always look fresh and intentional.
2. Barrel Twists
Barrel twists are another popular style for men with dreadlocks. The process starts by twisting two locs together, then gradually incorporating more locs into the twist. This builds up into a thick, cornrow-like barrel shape.
To secure the look, the final two locs are tied off at the end, preventing any unraveling. Each barrel twist is created section by section, allowing you to get creative with the overall style. You could have them all flowing back towards the nape of your neck for a smooth, uniform look. Or mix it up by angling some barrels sideways for an edgier vibe.
The barrel twist process does take some time and muscle in the beginning. But it’s well worth the effort for the long-lasting results. Plus, there’s a certain satisfaction that comes from watching those thick, ropey barrels take shape section by section.
3. Short Dreadlocks
Short dreadlocks, with lengths stopping around the chin or above, offer a convenient and low-maintenance hairstyle. Compared to longer locs, short dreadlocks are easier to handle and maintain, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a fuss-free look.
One of the benefits of short dreadlocks is the versatility they provide in terms of styling. You can experiment with various styles, from twisted updos to mohawks or tapered fades, without the weight and bulk of longer locs.
4. Dreadlocks With Extensions
Want instant dreadlocks in just a few hours? Extensions make it possible. Dreadlock extensions are created by installing Afro-textured hair extensions that mimic the look of real dreadlocks.
This saves you from the long process of growing out dreadlocks naturally. The extensions look very realistic, though you may notice a slight shine that gives them away.
Dreadlock extensions aren’t cheap, but they can last a long time when properly cared for. So, while the upfront cost is higher, extensions can be worth the investment for an instant loc’d style.
5. High Top Dreadlocks
A high top hairstyle has short hair on the sides and back, with long hair on top in a boxy shape. For high top dreadlocks, it’s the same idea. Short hair on the sides and back, but with dreadlocks standing upright at the top.
The sides and back can be faded or tapered to create a neat contrast against the dreadlocks on top. This style lets you rock dreadlocks without fully committing to locs all over your head.
High top dreadlocks give you an edgy, attention-grabbing look. It’s a fresh, youthful style that puts your personality on display.
6. Plaited Dreadlocks
Plaited dreadlocks mean putting your locs into braids. It’s done the same as regular braiding – taking three loc sections and crossing them over each other. When you take out the plaited dreadlocks later, you get another cool braid-out hairstyle. Plaited locs can be styled in many ways. It’s a versatile, long-lasting style that looks stylish.
7. Dreadlock Mohawk
Want to channel some 70s funk? Try the bold dreadlock mohawk! This hairstyle is all about making a statement with a strip of dreadlocks running from the front hairline to the back of the head.
For an edgier look, combine the dreadlock mohawk with low cut or shaved sides. But you can also do it without the shaved sides by just gathering your locs into that signature middle-peaked shape.
Either way, the dreadlock mohawk oozes attitude. It’s a surefire way to turn heads when you enter any room.
8. Dreadlock Mullet
For a funky, retro vibe, consider a dreadlock mullet. This style features short dreadlocks in the front and on the sides while leaving longer locs flowing down the back.
Getting a mullet cut with your dreadlocks is a statement choice since it requires cutting some of your locs shorter than others. But if you’ve got the confidence, a dreadlock mullet gives an undeniably cool, old-school aesthetic.
While the mullet shape itself is pretty set, you can still get creative with styling the different dreadlock lengths. Try slicking back the short front pieces or putting the long back locs into an updo.
9. Dreadlocks With Fade
For a modern, sharp look, try pairing your dreadlocks with a faded haircut on the sides and back. A dreadlock fade features your full locs on top while the hair gets gradually shorter down the sides and back.
This creates a cool contrast between your textured dreadlocks and the faded areas. You can go for a low, high, mid, or even skin fade. It’s all about the level of contrast you want.
A dreadlock fade style is the best of both worlds. You get to keep your locs on top but with a fresh, clean-cut on the sides. It’s an edgy combo that really lets your dreadlocks be the main attraction. Just be prepared for lots of “Yo, where’d you get that cut?”
10. Long Dreads
Long dreads refer to locks that extend past the shoulders, reaching down towards the waist or even below. Achieving this length takes serious patience and time, years of growth to get those dreads trailing down your back.
If you want to skip the long wait, extensions are an option for instantly locking in a longer look. But grown-out long dreads have a certain natural beauty to them.
The best part about long locs is their versatility for styling. All that length means you can experiment with updos, braids, twists, and more elaborate styles that wouldn’t work with shorter hair.
Of course, the tradeoff is that longer dreads require more maintenance and can feel heavier or get in the way at times. But many would say it’s worth the effort for the head-turning impact of a sweep of long locs.
11. Starter Locs
Every dreadlock journey starts somewhere – with starter locs. These are the very first baby locs that pioneer your full locked style. But starter locs aren’t just a transitional phase, they slay as a fresh hairstyle all on their own.
There are different methods for starting locs, like two-strand twists, finger coils, instant locking, free-forming, and budding. Whichever technique you choose, the key is little-to-no manipulation to let those first locs form up naturally.
While wearing your starter locs, you can still switch up the look with re-twists and different styling. It’s a versatile stage where you get to experiment before full locks set in.
12. Tapered Dreadlocks
For another clean look, try tapered dreadlocks. This style keeps your full locs on top while gradually tapering the hair shorter down the sides and back. The tapered sides give your look an extra sharp, fresh edginess.
The taper cut is also the perfect base for styling your dreadlocks in different ways. Try twisting them up, braiding them, putting them in a ponytail, or barrel twists. Just keep in mind that tapered dreads require regular touch-ups to keep the taper line looking its best as your hair grows out.
13. Blonde Dreadlocks
Ready to switch up your look in a major way? Go blonde with your dreadlocks. Dyeing your locs to a blonde shade is a bold transformation that’s sure to turn heads.
There are so many blonde colors to choose from when coloring dreadlocks. From platinum icy tones to golden honey blondes. You can even mix and layer shades.
14. Dyed Dreads
Dyeing your dreadlocks lets you experiment with bold new colors. You can use hair dye to switch up your natural hair color to vibrant shades like reds, blues, or anything you want.
Before dyeing, it’s important to take precautions. Do a strand test first, use petroleum jelly (Like Vaseline) to protect your scalp, and avoid over-bleaching. While you can dye dreads yourself, it’s best to see a professional stylist. They know how to keep your locs healthy and vibrantly colored. Dyeing opens up many expressive new looks.
15. Dreads With Curls At The End
For a unique textured look, consider trying dreadlocks with curly ends. These styles feature your trademark locs up top that transition into bouncy, curled strands towards the bottom.
While not super common for guys who’ve grown their locs naturally, curly dread ends can easily be achieved with pre-made extension locs. These let you temporarily wear that curly vibe, which you can install and remove as desired.
16. Locs Updo
A locs updo is the perfect way to get your dreads up and off your face and neck. This style involves twisting or braiding your locs upward and securing them at the top of your head.
Updos are especially convenient if you have longer locs. By sweeping all that hair up into one contained style, you won’t have to constantly worry about your locs getting in the way or having to restyle them throughout the day.
17. Medium Length Locs
Medium length dreadlocks typically hang around shoulder length or a bit longer. This length is quite versatile and manageable compared to really long locks.
Medium locs give you more styling options than shorter ones, yet they’re easier to care for than waist-grazing dreads. The maintenance is super straightforward, too. All you need are regular trims to keep that Goldilocks length. The medium length is spot-on for most guys.
18. Dreadlock Cornrows
Cornrows are a stylish way to get your dreads off your face and neck while showing off their unique texture. It involves braiding the locs flat against your scalp in different patterns and directions.
The look you create comes down to how you section and braid the cornrows. Go for thick, chunky braids or razor-thin ones. Braid them straight back, to the side, or experiment with curved, zigzag patterns going in varied directions. The possibilities are endless for personalizing this versatile style.
19. Dreadlocks Ponytail
A dreadlock ponytail is a style created by gathering all your locs and securing them together at one point. The key is to tie it moderately, not too tight or it’ll hurt, but snug enough to keep it in place. You can position the ponytail at the crown, nape of your neck, or anywhere in between.
If you have a wedding or job interview coming up, then a dreadlock ponytail is the perfect semi-formal look. It keeps your locks tamed and out of your face while still showing off their unique texture and length. Plus, it only takes a minute to whip that ponytail into shape.
20. Dreadlock Beard
A dreadlock beard? Now there’s a wild idea that might just work. Like the locks on your head, but concentrated solely around your chin and jawline. I have to admit, I’ve never actually seen someone rock this look before.
But hear me out, if you can dreadlock the hair on your scalp, why not the facial hair too? Definitely an acquired taste, but also totally unique.
Of course, growing that much facial hair into dreadlocks naturally would take forever. The wise move would be installing some dreadlock extensions to test-drive the style first. That way you can vibe with the dreadlock beard aesthetic before fully committing.
Once you’ve gone full knotty beard though, the maintenance is really no different than your head locs. Regular washing, tightening up any loose hairs, all the usual TLC. It’s a labor of love for sure.
21. Two Barrel Twist Dreads
Simplicity at its finest, that’s the two barrel twist dread style in a nutshell. As the name implies, it involves sectioning your locs into two equally-sized halves and barrel twisting each side. Straight to the point, no frills.
The process is pretty straightforward. First, you part your dreads down the middle from front to back. Then, you simply twist and coil each section from the roots down to the ends, maintaining that uniform barrel-shaped twist. To keep those twists locked in place, you tie off the ends with the last couple dread strands. Bam, you’re done!
22. Dreadlocks Bun
A dreadlock bun is made by gathering all your locs and rolling them into a round bun shape. It’s an easy style for guys with medium to long dreads.
The longer your locs, the bigger the bun will be. If your dreads are super long, you may want to style the bun loosely so it doesn’t feel too heavy on your head.
Dreadlock buns look clean and classy. They’re perfect for special events like weddings, work functions, or dates when you want a neat but stylish look. Give it a try for your next formal occasion.
23. Black And Blonde Dreadlocks
Black and blonde dreadlocks make for a striking, high-contrast look. Most guys start with naturally dark locs, so adding in some blonde highlights or streaks creates an edgy two-toned vibe.
To get the blonde, you’ll need to bleach or use a blonde box dye on some of your dreads. Bleaching can be damaging, so the dye option is gentler if you want to minimize dryness and breakage.
There are different ways to combine the black and blonde dreads too. You could dye the top half blonde and keep the bottom black for a half-and-half split. Or, go for a more chaotic, mixed-together pattern by bleaching random locs throughout your head.
Another option is black roots that gradually blend into blonde ends for more of an ombre effect. You could also throw in some chunky blonde highlights here and there.
24. Twisted Dreads With Fade
This style combines twisted dreadlocks on top with a clean fade cut on the sides and back. The twisted dreads can be styled into a ponytail, bun, or pineapple style. For the fade part, you can add designs or unique partings to make it your own.
25. All Back Dreadlocks
With all back dreadlocks, your locs get cornrowed from the hairline down to the nape of your neck. It’s a simple, no-frills style that keeps all your dreads pulled back.
To achieve it, your locs are sectioned off and then tightly braided straight back in cornrow braids. The end result is all your dreadlocks gathered and contained behind your head.
This basic all back look can be jazzed up by incorporating designs into the cornrow patterns. Or combine it with an undercut or side shave for some added edginess.
26. Dreadlocks With Red Tips
Adding red tips to your dreadlocks is a fun way to make them pop. The vibrant red creates an eye-catching contrast against your natural dreadlock color.
If red feels too bold, you can go for a deeper, darker red shade instead. It will still add dimension without being as in-your-face. You can dye just the very ends of your locs red. Or, take the color higher up the strands for an even bolder look.
It’s an easy way to switch up your style without doing anything too drastic. It lets you experiment with color in a subtle, low-commitment way.
27. Dreads With Blonde Tips
This style involves dyeing just the ends of your dreadlocks a blonde shade. It works great whether you have naturally dark or light brown locs. There are various blonde shades you can choose to complement your base dreadlock color. The blonde accents on the ends draw the eye and allow your dreadlocks to really pop.
28. Loc Knots
Loc knots add volume and texture to your dreadlocks. To make them, twist two loc strands together. Then fold the twist and roll the ends up into a knot shape.
Use elastic bands to secure the knots in place. Longer locs allow you to create bigger, thicker knots since you have more length to work with.
If you want smaller, less bulky knots, roll a shorter section from the ends.
Loc knots give your dreads extra dimension and chunkiness. The amount of volume depends on how much length you knot up.
They’re an easy way to change up the look of your locs without redoing them completely. Knots keep things interesting!
29. Locs With Shaved Sides
With shaved sides your dreads stay concentrated on top, while the sides are buzzed down tight. The shaved part needs frequent touch-ups as your hair grows back in. How often depends on your hair’s growth rate.
With this look, your styling options are limited to just the locs on top. You can twist them, bun them up, or let them hang free. If you want to change your full hairstyle later, the shaved sides will take time to grow back out fully.
30. Ombre Locs
Can’t pick just one color for your dreads? Go for an ombré fade instead. Ombré locs blend two or more shades together for a smooth, gradual transition of color.
It usually starts with a darker shade at the roots that fades into lighter colors towards the ends. But you can play with the placement however you want. To get multiple colors, each section has to be carefully dyed separately before blending them together.
31. Dreadlocks With Undercut
Dreadlocks with an undercut feature dreadlocks on top and buzzed short hair on the sides and/or back. You can style the dreadlocked section however you want, buns, twists, etc. Any dreadlock length works for this cut.
The undercut creates a stark contrast between the longer dreads up top and the shaved look on the bottom, giving the look an overall grungy, rebellious vibe.
32. Loc Knots Bob
The loc knots bob is a stylish, textured look for shorter dreadlocks. Here’s the breakdown. Your locs are trimmed to a chin-length or shoulder-grazing bob. At the ends of each dread, a chunky knot is created by twisting and rolling up the tips.
For short to medium-length locs, this length is perfect for making knotted ends without any folding. But if your dreads are longer, you can achieve the same bob look by folding and knotting them partway down.
The result is a nice-looking, cropped dreadlock style with lots of shape and movement from the knots. It adds definition and volume around the face.
33. Green Locs
Green might not be the first color that comes to mind when dyeing your locs, but hear me out, it’s worth considering. Green locs can be a refreshing choice that sets you apart from the crowd. From bright, vibrant shades to cool, calming tones, the green spectrum has a diverse range of tones to try out. The key is finding the right shade that complements your skin tone and personality. Don’t be afraid to experiment and step out of your comfort zone a bit.
34. Light Brown Dreadlocks
Looking to switch things up from your natural loc color without going too wild? Light brown dreadlocks could be the perfect happy medium. This warm shade complements most skin tones, giving your locs a new yet understated vibe.
While light brown might seem like a safe choice, don’t sleep on it. These locs can be a real head-turner. The mellow, earthy tones create a laid-back look that’s ideal for golden hour light.
35. Dreadlock Fishtail
A dreadlock fishtail is a cool style made by crossing over your locs in a criss cross pattern to look like a fishtail. You can make one big fishtail braid or split your locs into smaller sections for multiple fishtails. You can even tie it all back into a fishtail ponytail. Fishtail locs look stylish and neat, perfect for dressing up or just kicking it casual.
36. Dreadlock French Braids
Dreadlock French braids are a style made by crossing over three sections of your locs. You take two loc sections and cross them over the middle section to make an inverted braid pattern. You can get creative with different braid designs and styles using this technique. Unlike regular cornrow braids that stick up, French braids with locs lay flatter and closer to your head.
37. Dreadlocks With Highlights
Want to add a little extra to make your locs stand out from the crowd? Dreadlocks with highlights are a cool way to do it. The process involves dyeing some of your loc strands a lighter or contrasting color from your natural hair. The highlights peek through, giving your locs a subtle pop of color amid the regular shade. It’s a stylish way to switch things up without going too bold. Just be careful when applying the highlight dye so it doesn’t bleed onto your other locs. With the right touch, dreadlock highlights can give your look an edgy, personalized vibe.
38. Pineapple Dreads
Pineapple dreads are a fun, easy style where you gather all your locs up top and secure them like a ponytail. The ends of your locs stick up, resembling the spiky crown of a pineapple, hence the name! It’s a perfect casual updo for those with shorter to medium length dreads. Pineapple dreads have a laid-back, carefree vibe while still looking styled and put together. Best of all, achieving this pineapple look takes no time at all.
39. Layered Locs
Layered locs give your look a dimensional style. To achieve this, different sections of your locs are cut at varying lengths, with each layer getting progressively shorter. The result is a textured, multi-length look that adds serious visual interest. Layered locs allow you to still wear other styles like ponytails or half-up half-downs.
40. Dreads Twist Out
A dreads twist out is a cool way to change up the look of your locs. First, you twist sections of your dreads into two-strand twists. When you unravel those twists later, your locs go from straight to wavy with a fresh, textured pattern. If your locs are already in twists, you can easily get the twist out look just by taking them down.
41. Criss Cross Locs
Criss cross locs put a fresh spin on your typical retwist. Instead of just twisting up your roots in straight lines, you criss cross four loc sections diagonally to form an intersecting “X” pattern. This eye-catching design adds a nice texture to your look.
To achieve criss cross locs, you create the criss cross shapes as you retwist each section, then continue braiding or twisting the lengths as normal. It’s an easy technique that instantly elevates a basic retwist.
42. Dreadlocks With Middle Part
Most people already have a natural middle part, but few realize it can be the main focal point. Dreadlocks with a defined middle part draw attention to that clean center line, with your locs framing each side of your face.
If you already have a middle part, it’s just a matter of tidying up the parting to make it more pronounced. For those without one, you can gently separate your roots down the center until a middle path emerges. Once you’ve got that part in place, your locs will cascade flawlessly on either side.
The middle part style works with locs of any length and can be paired with other looks too. It’s a low-key detail that elevates your whole vibe with symmetry and sharpness.
43. Low Bun Locs
Low bun locs are an easy, laid-back style perfect for when you want your locs up and out of the way. To achieve this look, you gather all your locs at the nape of your neck and secure them into a neat bun shape using an elastic band or hair tie. It’s a quick, no-fuss updo that looks cool and put together without much effort.
One of the best things about the low bun is you don’t need crazy long locs or a professional stylist to pull it off. As long as you have enough length to loosely wrap into a bun, you’re good to go. Just scoop, twist, and secure. That said, those with shorter locs may have a tougher time getting that rounded bun shape to hold.
44. Pop Smoke Braids With Dreads
Want to channel some serious swagger? Pop Smoke braids with dreads is a modern edgy style inspired by the late rapper’s signature look. Instead of regular braids, you use your dreadlocks to recreate those sleek, scalp-hugging braids that fall on either side of your face and down the nape of your neck.
To mix it up, you can alternate between braiding and barrel or flat-twisting sections to add even more intricate texture. Pop Smoke may be gone, but his iconic braids live on through fire looks like this.
45. Flat Twist Dreads
Flat twist dreads are a sleek way to style your locs. The look is achieved by flat twisting sections of your dreads tightly against your scalp in a neat, close-to-the-head pattern. You can then leave the twisted lengths hanging, braid them, or sweep them into an updo like a ponytail or bun. The flat twisting technique creates a smooth, orderly look that really lets the full length and texture of your dreads shine.
